Since the announcement in March 2017, of a new statewide Right to Life organization in Ohio, Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio, the newly formed organization has made enormous strides towards redefining the abortion and family-first strategy for this battleground state. The group has already held two of five regional informational meetings to roll out their policy and guiding principles.

Ed Sitter, President of the organization, stressed the focus of a bottom up approach, where the grassroots will have access to decision making when it comes to legislative initiatives and dictate the education emphasis for the organization’s outreach programs. Sitter stated, “After working extensively with the pro-life grassroots since 2012, it became increasingly evident that there was a strong desire among pro-life Ohioans to have more meaningful representation in policy and strategy decision making, and this is what the new organization will allow.” This will be made possible through the corporate structure of the organization which will have delegates from each region and these delegates will have the opportunity to influence the direction of the organization through discussion, regular communication with the board of directors, and use of their votes to set direction.

In an exciting development, the vision of the new organization has been embraced by a leading national group, the Thomas More Society. The not-for-profit public interest law firm is dedicated to restoring respect in law for life, family, and religious liberty. The law firm has generously offered their legal service, pro-bono, to the newly formed group and is working with the group to revamp and update their corporate documents.

“The defense of life is an honorable pursuit, and a road which we travel in tandem with the selfless souls at Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio. Together we will guard the lives of the pre-born, disabled and elderly, as we preserve and shield the Constitutionally granted liberties of those who speak out on their behalf,” said Tom Brejcha, president and chief counsel of the Thomas More Society.

Molly Smith, an executive committee board member noted that during two recent regional meetings, Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio met with over 50 Christian, pro-life/pro-family leaders who represent 33 organization. Smith said, “This 21st century approach has already taken root in several parts of the state. Over the summer we will be meeting with pro-life and pro-family groups who have expressed an interest in participating with us in actions that will end abortion, strengthen families, and restore religious freedom.”

Thomas More Society’s vice president and general counsel Andrew Bath noted, “We are pleased to now be working with Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio, whose mission is to promote and defend the right to life of all innocent human beings, from the time of fertilization until natural death. As legal counsel of record, the Thomas More Society will endeavor to protect their First Amendment rights and freedoms.”

RTLACO executive members are available to speak to any interested church or community group. To arrange times and dates contact RTLACO Secretary, Diane Stover at dianestover@aol.com